People can burn-off energy at Christchurch City Council pools and fitness centres under Alert Level 2 but they will need to keep their physical distance from other customers.
“Our pools and fitness centres remain open under Alert Level 2 but people will notice some things are a bit different,’’ says Council Head of Recreation, Sports and Events Nigel Cox.
“All customers will be required to sign in, either manually or by scanning the QR code with the Government’s COVID-19 contact tracing app. They’ll also see signage throughout our centres reminding them of the need to keep a metre apart from other customers.
“We’ve got hand-sanitiser stations set up throughout our sport and recreation facilities and we are regularly cleaning public areas with a water-based aerosol sanitiser to provide a barrier that stops viruses surviving on surfaces.
At our pools
“Under Alert Level 2 we will be closing the saunas and putting away the inflatables and hydrotherapy equipment at our pools. A limited number of aqua-jogging belts and kick boards will be available but they will have to be cleaned between each use.
“For hygiene reasons, we won’t be hiring out togs, towels or goggles so please bring your own.’’
Mr Cox says the hydrotherapy pool at Taiora QEII will be open but will be operating at reduced capacity so people should only use it if they are undertaking therapy or rehabilitation activities.
Swimsmart lessons are running but with limited times and programming.
“At Taiora QEII, Graham Condon, Pioneer and Jellie Park Swimsmart lessons will continue to run for Tigersharks, Barracudas, Marlins and Squads at the usual times. All other lessons will be on hold at Alert Level 2. When we re-enter Level 1, we will return to the full programme and original schedule,’’ Mr Cox says.
Due to pool spacing and number limits, Bubbletimes and Sleepytimes are not running under Alert Level 2.
At our fitness centres
In the fitness centres, an online booking system is in place for group fitness classes.
“Bookings are not required if you want to do a work out in one of our fitness centres but please be aware that if you arrive at a busy time, you might have to wait before you’re allowed in as we need to control numbers in order to maintain the physical distancing requirements,’’ Mr Cox says.
Changes to activities and events
Tumbletimes sessions are running in a reduced capacity from 13 August at Pioneer and Cowles stadiums. They will not be running at Graham Condon until further notice. Please check the website for details of days and sessions.
After-school gymnastic classes will continue running on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 13 August with minor changes. The 3.45pm class will finish 10 minutes earlier at 4.35pm, and the 4.45pm class will start five minutes later at 4.50pm.